Analog control systems and methods for adaptive apparel

ABSTRACT

An adaptive support garment integrating directional fabrics to assist in providing adaptive support to select portions of the garment is discussed herein. The adaptive support garment can include a first directional fabric, a second direction fabric, and a tension device. The first directional fabric includes first directional fibers, and the first directional fabric can be coupled to a fixed portion of the adaptive support garment. The second directional fabric includes second directional fibers, and the second directional fabric can be coupled to a movable control structure portion of the adaptive support garment. The tension device can be coupled to the movable control structure and configured to apply a tension in a first direction on the movable control structure. In operation, the first directional fibers can engage with the second directional fibers to resist movement in a second direction opposite the first direction.

PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

Apparel, such as bras, tops, bottoms, tights, leggings, underwear, hatsor other head coverings, etc. can be constructed to provide support to awearer during various activities. Such articles of apparel can beconfigured to accommodate differences in body sizes and body types, andcan be configured for particular activities. Some apparel can havelimited adjustment mechanisms or adaptability.

BACKGROUND

Apparel, such as bras, tops, bottoms, tights, leggings, underwear, hatsor other head coverings, etc. can be constructed to provide support to awearer during various activities. Such articles of apparel can beconfigured to accommodate differences in body sizes and body types, andcan be configured for particular activities. Some apparel can havelimited adjustment mechanisms or adaptability.

OVERVIEW

The present inventors have recognized, among other things, a need forimproved fit and function of apparel, such as bras, tights, and variousother garments, undergarments, or base layers (also referred to hereinas support garments), hats, helmets, head coverings, footwear, and otherapparel. One example includes an adaptive bra that can provide acustomized fit for individual body contours and can automatically ormanually adjust to different dynamic conditions (e.g., changes inactivity level).

For example, an adaptive bra can adjust from maximum comfort to maximumbreast support as a wearer transitions from resting to strenuousexercise. An adaptive bra can also utilize automated adjustmentmechanisms coupled to movement sensors to dynamically adjust to inhibitunwanted movement of the breasts during activities, such as running asan example. Adaptive apparel, such as adaptive tights, athleticsupporters, or other articles discussed below, can also provide dynamicsupport with the potential to enhance performance or reduce potentialfor injury. Numerous examples of the various support apparel introducedhere are discussed throughout the following disclosure.

The term “support garment” as used herein is meant to encompass anynumber of support garments such as bras, sport bras, tank tops,camisoles with built-in support, swimming suit tops, body suits, andother styles or types of support garments used to support body tissue(e.g., breast tissue). Further, the term “supportive region” as usedherein is meant to encompass any type of structure that is in contactwith or intended to be positioned adjacent to the wearer's breasts,other reproductive organs, and/or soft tissue benefiting from enhancedsupport when the support garment is worn. In example aspects, for atypical wearer, a support garment comprises a first breast contactingsurface configured to contact or be positioned adjacent to, forinstance, a wearer's right breast and a second breast contacting surfaceconfigured to contact or be positioned adjacent to, for instance, awearer's left breast. In example aspects, the support garment comprisesseparate distinct cups (e.g., molded or unmolded) with each cupcomprising a breast contacting surface and each cup configured to coveror encapsulate a separate breast, or the support garment may comprise aunitary or continuous band of material that makes contact with both ofthe wearer's breasts.

The inventors have recognized need for dynamically modifying the supportprovided by certain types of support apparel based on a change inactivity level. The need for modifying the support stems from a desirefor long-term comfort contrasted with the potential for improvements infunctionality during activities. Accordingly, a system has beendeveloped including activity sensors, such as inertial measurement units(IMUs), global positioning sensors (GPS) or heart rate monitors, amongothers, in communication with a control circuit that sends commands toan adaptive support apparel including an adaptive engine to facilitateautomatic changes in support, such as based on changes in detectedactivity levels. These systems can provide a wearer all-day comfortwithout compromising performance. Without the systems, methods, anddevices discussed herein, a wearer may otherwise need to change supportapparel for different activities or struggle with multiple manualadjustments.

The activity sensors discussed herein can include any sensor thatprovides an indication of a level of physical activity of a user, aswell as any sensor that provides an indication of forces (e.g., dynamicor static) imparted on an adaptive support garment during use. Sensorscan be embedded into an adaptive support garment to provide data relatedto forces imparted on portions of a support structure, such as straps,laces, cables, or regions of fabric.

This section is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of thepresent patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusiveor exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description isincluded to provide further information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, themost significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to thefigure number in which that element is first introduced.

FIG. 1 illustrates generally portions of a system that can include anadaptive support garment.

FIG. 2 illustrates generally portions of a system that can include anadaptive support garment.

FIG. 3 illustrates generally a block diagram of some components of anadaptive support system.

FIG. 4 illustrates generally a front view of an adaptive support apparelin accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates generally a back view of an adaptive support apparelin accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example technique for configuringa support garment to provide dynamic support to a wearer in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example technique for operating acontrol mechanism within an adaptive apparel system, according tovarious example embodiments.

FIG. 8 is graph illustrating example effects of an adaptive supportapparel using a control system to control soft tissue movement, inaccordance with various example embodiments.

FIGS. 9A-9D are various drawings illustrating aspects of an air damperanalog control system, according to an example embodiment.

FIGS. 10A-10I are various drawings illustrating aspects of a powerharvesting control system, according to an example embodiment.

FIGS. 11A-11J are various drawings illustrating aspects of a rotarydamper analog control system, according to an example embodiment.

FIGS. 12A-12I are various drawings illustrating aspects of a digitalclutch control system, according to an example embodiment.

FIGS. 13A-13I are various drawings illustrating aspects of a rotaryfriction analog control system, according to an example embodiment.

FIGS. 14A-14D are various drawings illustrating aspects of an analogfriction fabric-based control system, according to an exampleembodiment.

FIGS. 15A-15C are various drawings illustrating aspects of an analogcontrol system, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example block diagram of some components of anadaptive support system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The description that follows describes systems, methods, techniques,instruction sequences, and computing machine program products thatillustrate example embodiments of the present subject matter. In thefollowing description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specificdetails are set forth in order to provide an understanding of variousembodiments of the present subject matter. It will be evident, however,that embodiments of the present subject matter may be practiced withoutsome or other of these specific details. Examples merely typify possiblevariations. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, structures (e.g.,structural components, such as modules, devices, systems or componentsthereof) are optional and can be combined or subdivided, and operations(e.g., in a procedure, algorithm, or other function) can vary insequence or be combined or subdivided.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a system including an adaptive supportgarment and associated electronics, according to some exampleembodiments. In this example, the adaptive support apparel system 1includes components such as, an adaptive support garment 10, a footwearassembly 20, and a smart watch 30. Optionally, the adaptive supportapparel system 1 can also communicate with a smartphone 35 for controlor adjustment of parameters. In this example, the footwear assembly 20includes an activity sensor 25, and the adaptive support garment 10includes an adaptive engine 15. In this example, the adaptive engine 15couples to a control device and/or control lace system that controls anadaptive support structure within the adaptive support garment 10.

In this example, the footwear assembly 20 includes an activity sensor 25that can include sensors such as an accelerometer, a gyroscope, atemperature sensor, a magnetometer, a heart rate sensor, or a globalpositioning sensor (GPS) to detect a change in activity level. In oneexample, the footwear assembly 20 includes an inertial measurement unit(IMU), which combines at least accelerometers and gyroscopes to providea specific force, orientation, or angular rate of change for a monitoredbody. Data from the IMU can be used to detect movements, such as footstrike or cadence among other things. In this example, the data from theactivity sensor 25 is communicated to the smart watch 30 or smartphone35 for processing to determine whether a change in adaptive support isneeded based on the activity data from the activity sensor. In anotherexample, the activity data base be sent directly to the adaptive engine15 for processing and determination of adaptive support level needed.

Foot strike data is just a portion of a broader array of step metricsthat can be determined from sensors, such as activity sensor 25 (e.g.,IMU and Force sensor combination). Step metrics can include individualsteps or step count. A step can be defined for this metric based onparameters such as, minimum vertical force threshold, minimum averagevertical force per step, minimum step time and maximum step time. Stepmetrics can also include contact time, which is calculated per foot perstep using a force single (e.g., time when vertical force>50N). Anotherstep metric is swing time, which is calculated per foot per step usingforce single (e.g., time when vertical force<50N until that foot createsa force>50N). Step metrics also include cadence, which can be defined asthe inverse of the sum of the contact and swing time for each foot usingforce signal. Step length is another step metric calculated using aforce signal (e.g., sum of contact and swing time multiplied by averagespeed). Another step metric is impact, which can be calculated in atleast two ways. Impact can be a peak rate of rise of the vertical groundreaction force, or an active peak of the vertical ground reaction force.Impulse is another step metric that is calculated per foot per stepusing a force signal (e.g., integral of the ground reaction forcemagnitude). Contact is another step metric derived from motion data. Forexample, using IMU data sampled at 200 Hz to determine foot anglerelative to horizontal at the time of foot contact. Contact can includerearfoot, midfoot, and forefoot angles. Any of the step metricsdiscussed here can be used as activity data or in addition to otheractivity data to assist in determining an activity level or directly todetermine a target support level for an adaptive support garment.

In this example, one or each of the adaptive engine 15, smart watch 30,and smartphone 35, separately or in conjunction with one another or byaccessing remote computing resources, includes a control circuit thatprocesses the activity data and sends commands to the adaptive engine 15to change support characteristics as needed. The adaptive engine 15receives commands and activates a system to adjust an adaptive supportstructure through interactions with a clutch system coupled to theadaptive engine 15.

FIG. 2 illustrates a user of an adaptive support apparel systemtransitioning between different activities that might require, orbenefit from, various levels of support. In this example, the activitysensor 25, illustrated within the footwear assembly 20, operates todetect different activity levels ranging from a relaxed walk to moderateexertion doing yoga to more extreme impact and exertion involved inrunning. In this example, the activity sensor 25 transmits data to acontrol circuit in the smart watch 30, which is running an applicationthat determines a current activity level based on the activity datainterpreted from the sensor(s). In some examples, the smart watch 30 canalso include activity sensors that also send activity data to thecontrol circuit operating on the smart watch 30 to provide additionalactivity level information to inform a decision to increase or decreasethe support provided by the adaptive support garment 10, such as anadaptive bra as in this example. For example, the smart watch 30 caninclude an integrated heart rate monitor that can be used as additionalinformation related to activity level.

In the comfort zone, the adaptive apparel support system 1 detects lowlevels of physical activity that have been determined to correspond to arelaxed level of support required from an adaptive support garment.Accordingly, the control circuit commands the adaptive engine 15 toactivate and adjust the adaptive support garment 10 to a comfortsetting. The control application (e.g., application operating thecontrol circuit) can include a user interface that provides a useraccess to different settings for the adaptive support garment. In anexample, the settings can include associating different support levelswith different pre-defined activity levels, such as resting=comfortsupport level (e.g., low level of support) and higher impact=performancesupport level (e.g., a high level of support). Other mappings can becreated, and a user interface can be presented to allow a user togenerate custom mappings, Table 1 illustrates an example mapping tablefor Activity Level—Support Level mapping.

TABLE 1 Activity Level Support Level Resting (no exertion, no impact)Comfort-Minimum Support Walking (moderate exertion, lowRecreation-Moderate Support impact) Yoga (moderate exertion & impact)Sport-Enhanced Support Running (high exertion & impact)Performance-Superior Support

As illustrated, a user can transition from Comfort to Lower Impact byincreasing exertion and/or impact detected by the activity sensors.Dynamically, upon detecting a transition the control circuit in thesmart watch 30 commands the adaptive engine 15 to increase the supportlevel provided by the adaptive support garment 10. If the user revertsto a Comfort level of activity (e.g., resting or walking), then thecontrol circuit can command the adaptive engine 15 to relax the supportlevel back to a comfort level of support. Alternatively, if the userincreases activity by going for a run, the system can dynamicallyrespond with the adaptive engine 15 increasing the support level to ahigher impact (performance) level of support.

In certain examples, a user can select from multiple different activityrelated parameters (e.g., heart rate, cadence, impact, etc.) andassociate different levels of each parameter with different supportlevels. For example, a user can create a running activity classificationthat uses heart rate and cadence as triggers. The running activity canthen be mapped to a high support level. The support level can also beconfigured by associating different support structure adjustments to aparticular support level, such as a lace tension for a lacingsystem-based support structure.

Support Garment

FIG. 3 illustrates generally an apparel example 302. A female front viewof support garment 302 is shown having a left front view of left lacesystem 304, a right front view of right lace system 306, a left shoulderstrap 308, a left fixing point 310, a right fixing point 312, a rightcup 316, and a left cup 314.

The apparel example 302 is an example of a support garment for a wearerhaving a textile layer forming a supportive region configured toadjustably inhibit displacement of a body part of the wearer positionedproximate the supportive region. The apparel example 302 may alsoinclude a strap affixed to a portion of the textile layer. The left andright lace systems 304 and 306 may encase a control mechanism includingcables and/or pulleys to selectively control movement of a breast withineither the right cup 316 or left cup 314.

The apparel example 302 is of a sports bra and the supportive region isa right cup 316 and a left cup 314 of the sports bra. The lace systems304 and 306 are individually addressable or controllable by a controller(e.g., by the support garment control device 1612) to selectively adjustan absolute or relative amount by which the support garment allowsdisplacement of the body part. For example, if a wearer has a largerleft breast, the left cup 314 may provide a different level of supportthan the right cup 316 provides for the right breast.

FIG. 4 illustrates a second view of an adaptive support apparel example402 similar to the adaptive support apparel example 302. A back view ofsupport garment 402 shows a back view of left lace system 404 and backview of right lace system 406 The support garment may include anintegrated garment control unit 408 embedded within or coupled to thesupport garment. The garment control unit 408 can include a system orprocessor configured to control actuation of a clutch. Garment controlunit 408 may be permanently or semi-permanently affixed to a backportion 410 of adaptive support apparel example 402. In some examples asdescribed in FIG. 6, the garment control unit 408 is coupled to theadaptive support apparel example at various locations (e.g., in betweenthe breasts in a front view of the adaptive support apparel or betweenthe shoulder blades as shown in FIG. 4).

The support garment is configured to inhibit displacement of thewearer's body part when the wearer or the wearer's body part is measuredat an acceleration rate higher than a threshold. The support garment isconfigured to relax or allow the support garment to flex.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a modular control system 502 for use inconjunction with an adaptive support apparel. The example shows a backview of a left lace system 510 and a back view of a right lace system522. The garment control unit 502 can be a modular device configured forattachment to the support garment 302 (FIG. 3) and may includemechanical mechanisms for providing dynamic support to the wearer (e.g.,air damper 900 and mechanical/digital clutch systems discussed below)and various additional sensors. Various mechanisms as described hereinmay be included in the left and right lace systems 510 and 522.Alternatively, the left and right lace systems 510, 522 can be coupledto the various mechanisms discussed herein. The garment control unit 502includes a left adjusting strap 504 and a right adjusting strap 516 thatmay be controlled by the garment control unit to apply various tensionsto the support garment. The right and left adjusting straps 504 and 516are coupled to a base 512 and can be attached to the support garment 302or 402 by attachment mechanisms 506, 514, 518, 524, 526, and 528.Attachment mechanisms can include O-rings, d-rings, hook and loopfasteners, zippers, snaps, or any other type of suitable attachmentmechanisms for selectively coupling the garment control unit 502 to aportion of a support garment. The garment control unit 502 is furthercoupled to the support garment and/or a sub-component attached to thesupport garment through right connector 520 and left connectors 508. Theright and left connectors 520 and 508 may be used to attach additionalmodular units including additional sensors such as accelerometers,gyroscopes, GPS, heart rate monitor, EKG monitor, etc.

In some embodiments, the integrated garment control unit 502 may beplaced at a location on the front of the support garment for examplebetween the breasts or placed at a location on the back of the supportgarment for example between the shoulder blades. The modular unit canhelp provide dynamic support of a user's body as described herein, forexample, without integration with or permanent affixation to the supportgarment (e.g., sewn in or otherwise permanently affixed). The modularunit may include one or more adjusting straps (e.g., right adjustingstrap 516 and left adjusting strap 504) to selectively couple to thesupport garment to provide the functionalities as described with respectto FIG. 3-4.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example method 600 for selectivelycontrolling a portion of an adaptive support apparel, according to anexample embodiment. The method can be performed by any of the controlmechanism discussed herein with regards to FIGS. 9A-13I in cooperationwith the adaptive support apparel discussed above.

In some embodiments, the method 600 includes operations for providingdynamic support for an appendage of a person. The method begins atoperation 602 and at operation 604, proceeds by applying a first tensionusing a support garment control device on a control lace coupled to asupport portion of an adaptive support garment. In some examples, at anoperation preceding operation 604, a support garment control device isattached to a modular panel including a mechanical control system to bedetachably integrated into the adaptive support garment (e.g., FIG. 5).Attaching the support garment control device to the modular panel mayinclude coupling the control lace to the support garment control device.The coupling may be achieved via connectors shown in FIG. 5, viahook-and-loop mechanical fasteners, zippers, snap buttons, or anysuitable mechanism allowing selective coupling of the control lace tothe support garment control device.

At operation 606, the support garment control device is locked at thefirst tension to inhibit movement of the control lace in response todetecting a change in movement of the person. In some examples, amovement input is detected and/or received from a sensor adapted formonitoring movements of the person. The output from the sensor isevaluated to detect the change of movement of the person. The outputfrom the sensor may be evaluated to predict a future motion of theperson to preemptively apply the first tension on the control lace.Additionally, the output of the sensor may be evaluated to determine aduration of time for the control lace to remain locked at the firsttension. Based on the output of the sensor, a direction and/oracceleration rate of the person can be determined. The accelerationand/or direction is used to adjust the first tension according to thedirection and acceleration of the person.

For example, a person is wearing an adaptive support garment such as asports bra. The person is training for a “mud run” competition and willbe performing a series of jogging, running, jumping, and crawlingexercises. Based on the detected direction, acceleration, and/orintensity of the movements of the person, the support garment controldevice applies a tension on a control lace (e.g., control lace system510, 522 FIG. 5) and the support garment control device is locked toinhibit movement. When the person is running, the support garmentcontrol device is locked at a first tension. When the person is jumping,the support garment control device is locked at a second tension andpossibly for a different time duration than when the person is running.Various tensions and locking intervals are possible depending on variousconditions and movements of the person.

At operation 608, a determination is made whether a pre-determined eventsubsequent to the change in movement of the person has occurred. If yes,the method 600 continues at operation 610 to unlock the support garmentcontrol device.

In some examples, the pre-determined event includes expiration of a timedelay since locking the support garment control device. In otherexamples, the pre-determined event includes receiving an indication(e.g., from a sensor) that the movement of the person has changed inacceleration, direction, and/or frequency. In yet other examples, thepre-determined event can include a tension on a control lace exceedingor transgressing a threshold value.

After the support garment control device is unlocked at operation 610,in some examples, the method includes applying a second tension on thecontrol lace, the second tension being a higher tension than the firsttension. The support garment control device is locked at the secondtension to restrict movement of the control lace in response todetecting a second change in movement of the person. The second changein movement of the person may include an acceleration of the person inone or more directions. The support garment control device is unlockedafter a second pre-determined event subsequent to the second change inmovement of the person. The second pre-determined event may in someembodiments be the same pre-determined event that was detected to unlockthe support garment control device at the first tension.

The method may end at operation 612 or in some examples, repeat asdetermined necessary to provide dynamic support for a wearer while thewearer is in motion.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example technique 700 forcontrolling a portion of an adaptive support apparel, according to anexample embodiment. The technique 700 can be performed by any of thecontrol mechanisms discussed below in FIGS. 9A-14B but will be discussedin view of the rotary damper control mechanism 1100 and the digitalrotary clutch control mechanism 1200 as examples. The first exampleimplementation of techniques 700 is discussed in view of the rotarydamper control mechanism 1100 and will not involve the optionaloperations for detecting a change in movement at 715 and 730. The rotarydamper control example is comparable to how the technique 700 applies toall analog control system discussed herein.

In an example, the technique 700 includes operations for applying afirst tension on a lace cable at 710, engaging a control mechanism at720, applying a second tension on a lace cable at 725, and disengagingthe control mechanism at 735. In this example, the technique 700 beginsas a user engages in an impact oriented physical activity, as indicatedin the flowchart the technique 700 is cyclical and continues during theentire impact oriented physical activity. At 710, the technique 700begins with the control mechanism, a rotary damper control mechanism1100 in this example, applying a first tension on a lace cable that iscoupled to a support portion of an adaptive support apparel, such as anadaptive bra. The rotary damper control mechanism 1100 applies the firsttension in a retracting (or free) mode where the lace spool 1110 isbiased by the rotary bias member 1118 to retract the lace cable (orallow for extension of the lace cable if tension on the lace cableexceeds the bias provide by the rotary bias member 1118). In thisinitial retracting/free mode, the locking ring 1120 rotatescounter-clockwise until the lock wedge 1125 disengages the dampermechanism 1130 from the spool gear 1115 and the upper lock release tab1126 engages a lock release housing slot (or tab) 1107 to release thefriction between the locking ring 1120 and the lock ring groove 1114(friction is generated by the locking tension member 1121). As lace isretracted by the lace spool 1110, the locking ring 1120 and lock wedge1125 are naturally held in a position to keep the damper mechanism 1130disengaged. However, as the lace cable is pulled out of the controlmechanism by tension exceeding the rotary bias member 1118, thetechnique 700 transitions to operation 720.

At 720, the technique 700 can continue with the rotary damper controlmechanism 1100 engaging the damper mechanism 1130 due to the lockingring 1120 rotating clockwise to position the lock wedge 1125 in aneutral position that allows the damper mechanism 1130 to engage thelace spool 1110 (via either the damper gear 1136 or a drive gear 1140engaging the spool gear 1115). Upon activation of the damper mechanism1130, the technique 700 transitions to operation 725 by applying asecond tension on the lace cable, which increases the tension requiredto extract additional lace cable from the control mechanism. At 725, thedamper mechanism 1130 is engaged to apply the second tension on the lacecable as the lace cable is pulled from the control mechanism via thelace guide 1150. During operation 725, the lower lock release tab 1127on the locking ring 1120 can engage a lock release housing tab 1106extending from the lower housing 1101 to release friction between thelocking ring 1120 and the lock ring groove 1114.

At 735, the technique 700 completes a cycle by disengaging the controlmechanism. The rotary damper control mechanism 1100 can disengage whenthe lace spool 1110 rotates sufficiently counter-clockwise to engage thelock wedge 1125 portion of the locking ring 1120, which pivots thedamper mechanism 1130 away from engagement with the lace spool 1110.Disengagement can occur as the lace cable retracts back into the controlmechanism as the cycle of the impact oriented exercise enters a statethat unloads the adaptive support apparel and release tension on thelace cable. After the technique 700 has disengaged the control mechanismat 735, the technique loops back to restart the cycle at operation 710by applying the first tension on the lace cable. The technique 700 willcontinue to cycle through the operations in coordination with the impactoriented exercise, as transitions between the various operations isdriven by tension on the lace cable induced by the forces experienced bythe adaptive support apparel.

In an optional example of technique 700, the digital rotary clutchcontrol mechanism 1200 (also referred to as control mechanism 1200) isthe control mechanism performing the technique. In this example, theoptional operations for detecting a change in movement 715 and 730 areincluded. As discussed above, the control mechanism 1200 includes acircuit board 1260 that can receive information from sensors coupled toan adaptive support apparel or the user. The sensors can be configuredto detect changes in movement associated with the user that can be usedby the control mechanism as triggers to transition between modes ofoperation. In this example, the digital rotary clutch control mechanismtransitions between a free mode (ratchet disengaged) and a ratchetingmode (ratchet engaged).

The technique 700 can begin at 710 with the control mechanism 1200applying a first tension to the lace cable. At 710, the controlmechanism 1200 is in a free mode with the ratchet mechanism 1230disengaged by the solenoids 1240A, 1240B (collectively referred to assolenoids 1240). In this mode, the lace spool 1210 is free to rotationin either direction, but is biased by the rotary bias member 1218 toapply a first tension on the lace cable. In this mode, the controlmechanism 1200 is generally allowing the lace cable to extend outward.Similar to the rotary damper control mechanism 1100 discussed above, inthe free mode within the control mechanism 1200 the locking ring 1220rotates in a clockwise direction (as viewed from the device shown inFIGS. 12A-12B) until the upper lock release tab 1226 engages the lockrelease housing slot (or tab) (see e.g., FIG. 11C, 1107 for illustrationof a similar structure) on the upper housing 1202 to release frictionbetween the locking ring 1220 and the lock ring groove 1214. Releasingthe friction between the locking 1220 and the lock ring groove 1214allows the lace spool 1210 to apply more of the tension generated by therotary bias member 1218 to the lace cable.

At 715, the technique 700 can continue with the control mechanism 1200detecting a change in movement. In this example, the circuit board 1260can receive a signal from one or more sensors worn by the user that canbe interpreted to detect the change in movement. In other examples,detecting a change in movement may simply be a trigger signal receivedby the circuit board 1260 that does not require any additionalprocessing or interpretation. Upon detecting the change in movement at715, the technique 700 continues at 720 by transitioning to engage thecontrol mechanism 1200. Engaging the control mechanism 1200 includesdeactivating the solenoids 1240 to engage the ratchet mechanism 1230.Deactivating the solenoids 1240 retracts the solenoid shafts 1245A,1245B and allows the ratchet tooth 1234 to engage the spool gear 1215.In the ratcheting mode, the control mechanism 1200 only allows for lacecable retraction. Accordingly, upon engagement of the control mechanism1200, the technique 700 transitions to applying a second tension on thelace cable at 725. In this example, applying the second tension includespreventing extraction of additional lace cable from the controlmechanism 1200 due to engagement of the ratchet mechanism 1230. In theratcheting mode, the locking ring 1220 rotates with the lace spool 1210in a counter-clockwise direction until the lower lock release tab 1227engages the lock release housing tab (see e.g., FIG. 11E, 1106 forillustration of a similar structure) on the lower housing 1201. When thelower lock release tab 1227 engages the lock release housing tab, thefriction between the locking ring 1220 and the lock ring groove 1214 isreleased (or reduced) by relieving tension between the tensioninterfaces 1222A, 1222B generated by the locking tension member 1221.

At 730, the technique 700 can continue by detecting another change inmovement. Again, the detection of change in movement can arise fromsensor data or be sent in as a trigger signal from an outside source.Alternatively, operation 730 can be triggered by a programmed time delaywithin the circuit board 1260 rather than any sort of sensor data. Insome examples, the system can analyze cyclical sensor data to predictwhen the technique 700 should transition from operation 725 to operation735 (e.g., perform operation 730). In this example, detecting the changein movement is based on a prediction algorithm analyzing past cycles totrigger the detection of the change in movement just prior to the actualchange in movement, which can provide improved (or at least different)support characteristics.

Upon detecting the change in movement, the technique 700 transitions tooperation 735 to disengage the control mechanism 1200. Disengaging theratchet mechanism 1230 involves activating the solenoids 1240, whichcauses the solenoid shafts 1245A, 1245B to extend and push the ratchetsolenoid arm 1235 and shift the ratchet tooth 1234 away from engagementwith the spool gear 1215. After the ratchet mechanism 1230 isdisengaged, the technique 700 cycles back to operation 710 and appliesthe first tension on the lace cable.

Control Systems

The following sections outline a number of control systems/devices thatcan be integrated into an adaptive support apparel, such as the adaptivebra discussed above. In these examples, the control systems are designedto assist in reducing movement of soft tissue, such as breast tissue,during moderate to high impact activities. The control systems are notnecessarily designed to eliminate motion of the soft tissue, but ratherreduce and/or alter the motion to make it more comfortable for thewearer of the support apparel.

In the adaptive bra example, the control system can be utilized toreduce and/or offset the cyclical movement of breast tissue as comparedto the center of mass. FIG. 8 illustrates exemplary results from anexample implementation of one of the following control systems tocontrol movement of breast tissue with respect to the center of mass ofthe wearer while running. The graph includes two lines, the center ofmass line 810 (also marked TORSO) and the soft tissue line 820 (e.g.,breast tissue). Each line illustrates movement of the respective objectin reference to a fixed observation point. As illustrated by acomparison of the two lines, the soft tissue line 820 traces a cyclicalpattern that includes lower amplitude and is offset from the center ofmass line 810. The inventors have discovered that both attributes cancontribute to improved comfort for a user. The lower amplitude isindicative of less movement, which results in lower acceleration forcesduring transition from movement in different directions. It is believedthat the shift in the cycle of the soft tissue line 820 can also furtherreduce the compounding of forces on the soft tissue when moving insynchronization with the center of mass.

In contrast to an adaptive bra according to any of the discussedexamples, using a typical sports bra during similar activity results inthe amplitude of the breast tissue exceeding the amplitude of the torso.Reducing movement of the breast tissue, as demonstrated with theadaptive bra, results in less acceleration which results in less inertiathat must be counteracted thereby increasing running efficiency. Usingone of the adaptive bra examples discussed herein is comparable tocarrying less weight while running or engaging in other high impactactivities.

In these examples, the control system operates to dynamically adjusttension on straps that connect to the cups supporting the breast tissue.For the sake of discussion, the structure controlled by the controlsystems is discussed herein as a lace or lace cable, but could otherstructures suitable for incorporation into the various control systems.In these examples, the lace couples to the support structure of theadaptive apparel, such as straps of the adaptive bra. The controlsystems in various manners operate to retract, retain, and then releasethe lace in a particular time sequence to alter or restrict movement ofthe targeted soft tissue.

In this example, the control systems were programmed or designed toretract the lace for a time during or just after the propulsion phasethrough the swing phase. Retraction is typically timed to occur whilethe soft tissues are raising or neutral. Upon or just after the highestpoint of breast motion (or middle of the swing phase), the controlsystem locks the lace to maintain the retracted position of the supportstructures and limit movement of the supported soft tissue. The controlsystem locks for a pre-determined time period, based on sensor inputs,or until a threshold tension is exceed at which time the lace isreleased. The lace tension is held during impact (torso trough) in orderto support the breast in this more neutral position since it is the mostpainful time in the gate (running cycle). A typical sports bra producesthe greatest breast tissue deflection in a similar portion of the gate.The lace tension is then released just after impact in order to preventthe breast tissue from being thrown upwards by the rigid (high) lacetension. Control systems typically maintain a certain tension on thelace even upon release to continue to provide some level of control ofthe support structure.

In certain examples, the following triggers can be used for when and howto control the lace tension. Measurements of acceleration of the torso,such as by an accelerometer, can be used to time lace release andretraction. Detection of deflection of the breast tissue relative to thetorso using devices such as a strain gauge, a linear potentiometer, orother positional sensors can be used to control lace tension. Thedevices discussed can also be configured to dampen motion with a dashpotor variable clutch, which can be used to further reduce the impact ofthe breast tissue at the bottom of the motion cycle.

FIGS. 9A-9D are various drawings illustrating aspects of an air damperanalog control system 900, according to an example embodiment. In thisexample, the air damper can function as an analog control device withlace cable 901 coupled to a support structure of an adaptive supportapparel. In this example, the air damper 900 can include structures suchas an air cylinder 910, a piston 920, a bias member 930, a housing 940,a check valve 950, and control valve 960. The lace cable 901 couples tothe piston 920 through a lace port 916 on the proximal end 914 of thehousing 940. The piston 920 is biased towards the distal end 911 of theair cylinder 910 by the bias member 930, in this example a coil spring.Tension on the lace cable 901 presses the piston 920 proximally againstboth air pression within the air cylinder 910 as well as the bias member930. The control valve 960 controls the amount of air pressure withinthe air cylinder 910, while the check valve 950 is a one-way valve thatallows air to escape upon retraction of the piston 920.

In this example, the housing 940 includes components such as a cylinderholder 941, an upper housing 942, and a lower housing 944. The upperhousing 942 is coupled to the lower housing 944 with housing fasteners946A, 946B extending through fastener bores 943A, 943B (illustrated inat least FIGS. 9B and 9D). The housing 940 can be affixed to the supportapparel via mounting holes 948A, 948B.

As illustrated in the cross-sectional view in FIG. 9D, the piston 920includes a lace anchor 922 that captures the lace to provide control.The piston 920 also includes a cylindrical pocket to receive the biasmember 930 (illustrated in FIG. 9A). As noted above, in this example thebias member 930 is a helical coil spring, but other suitable biasmembers could be implemented, such as wave washers. The cross-sectionalso illustrates the damper control port 912 on the distal end 911 ofthe air cylinder 910. In this example, the control valve 960 and thecheck valve 950 couple to the damper control port 912. In otherexamples, the control valve 960 and the check valve 950 can beintegrated into the distal end 911 of the air cylinder 910.

As shown in the exploded perspective view in FIG. 9C, the air damper 900can be assembled by threading the lace 901 through the lace port 916 andaffixing the lace 901 to the lace anchor on the piston 920. Afteraffixing the lace 901, the piston 920 is inserted into the proximal endof the air cylinder 910, and the air cylinder 910 is inserted into thecylinder holder 941. Once the air cylinder 910 is in the cylinder holder941, the upper housing 942 can be coupled to the lower housing 944 usinghousing fasteners 946A, 946B.

The air damper 900 is illustrated in a cylindrical configuration, butsimilar air damping concepts can be implemented in other configurationsusing a controlled air chamber, piston and biasing member.

FIGS. 10A-10I are various drawings illustrating aspects of a powerharvesting control system, according to an example embodiment. In thisexample, the control system 1000 includes a power harvesting component(generator mechanism 1030) that operates to apply tension to the laceduring certain portions of its operation cycle. In this example, thepower harvesting component is a motor 1032 and reduction gearing 1033that applies regenerative braking through a series of gears coupled tothe lace spool 1010. When engaged the generator mechanism 1030 applies atension to a lace unwinding from the lace spool 1010 and back drives themotor 1032 to produce power that can be used to operate sensors, lightsor other components of an adaptive support system.

In this example, the primary components of the regenerative controlsystem 1000 include a lower housing 1001, an upper housing 1002, a lacespool 1010, a locking ring 1020, a generator mechanism 1030, and a laceguide 1050. The lower housing 1001 includes a mounting flange 1003within mounting holes 1004. The lower housing 1001 and upper housing1002 each include a lace guide recess 1005 through which the lace guides1050 extends. In this example, the upper housing 1002 also includes anopening for a portion of the generator mechanism 1030 (see FIG. 10B).

The lace spool 1010 operates to hold the lace that couples theregenerative control mechanism 1000 to support structures within theadaptive support apparel. The lace spool 1010 operates to controlextension and retraction of the lace in a manner intended to controlcertain targeted soft tissues, such as breast tissue in the adaptive braexample. The lace spool 1010 includes a lace anchor 1011, which is alocation for the lace to terminate and be secured to the lace spool1010. In this example, the lace anchor 1011 includes two adjacent boresextending through a recessed portion of the superior side of the lacespool 1010. The lace spool 1010 includes two circumferential grooves,the first and larger groove is the lace groove 1012, which is where thelace is accumulated upon retraction into the regenerative controlmechanism 1000. The second groove formed by a lower portion of the lacespool 1010 and an upper portion of the lace gear 1015 is the lock ringgroove 1014, which retains the locking ring 1020. The lower portion ofthe lace spool 1010 is coupled to the spool gear 1015, which interfaceswith the generator mechanism 1030 via the drive gear 1040. The lacespool 1010 and lace gear 1015 rotate on a spool shaft 1017, which is anextension of the lower housing 1001 in this example.

The locking ring 1020 performs a critical function within theregenerative control mechanism 1000 (as well as within all of thesimilar control mechanisms discussed below) by engaging and disengagingthe generator mechanism 1030 via operation of the lock wedge 1025. Thelocking ring 1020 rotates with the lace spool 1010 based on tensioncreated by the locking tension member 1018 biasing the tensioninterfaces 1022A, 1022B together and creating increased friction betweenthe locking ring 1020 and the lock ring groove 1014. The locking tensionmember 1018 can be an 0-ring or similar biasing member. The locking ring1020 also includes an upper lock release tab 1026 and a lower lockrelease tab 1027, which operate to release friction between the lockingring 1020 and the lock ring groove 1014 at certain points in therotation of the lock ring 1020 by reducing the tension on the tensioninterfaces 1022A, 1022B and expanding the locking ring 1020 diameter.The upper lock release tab 1026 and lower lock release tab 1027 engagefeatures on the lower housing 1001 or upper housing 1002 to releasetension on the lock ring 1020. In some examples, the upper lock releasetab 1026 can ride within a slot in the upper housing and operate byengaging end points on the slot. Alternatively, the upper lock releasetab 1026 can engage a lock release housing tab extending from theunderside of the upper housing. In some examples, the lower lock releasetab 1027 can engage a lock release housing tab extending up from theinside surface of the lower housing. These different configurations areillustrated below in various figures.

Overall operation of the lock ring 1020 is best illustrated by FIGS. 11Aand 11B, which include a comparable lock ring 1120 with similarstructures and operation as are included in the regenerative controlmechanism 1000. As shown in FIG. 11A, the lock ring 1120 is in anunlocked state where the lock wedge 1125 is disengaged from the drivegear 1140, which allows the damper mechanism 1130 (comparable togenerator mechanism 1030) to be engaged via interaction between thedrive gear 1140 and spool gear 1115 (comparable to spool gear 1015). Theunlocked state illustrated in FIG. 11A can also be considered a dampingstate (or generating state in the example of FIGS. 10A-10I). The lockring 1120 is rotated into the unlocked state upon extension (e.g.,unwinding) of the lace from the lace spool 1120. In this state, thelower lock release tab 1127 can engage a lock release housing tab 1106to release the friction between the lock ring 1120 and the lock ringgroove 1114 of the lace spool 1110 (stretching the locking tensionmember 1121 and opening the diameter of the lock ring 1120).

Upon retraction of the lace back onto the lace spool 1110, the lock ring1120 will rotate in a counter-clockwise direction into a locked state asillustrated in FIG. 11B. The locked state illustrated in FIG. 11B isalso known as the retracting state or mode, where the lace is retractedback onto the lace spool 1110 through operation of a rotary bias member1118 within the lace spool 1110. In the retracting mode, the lock ring1120 is rotated such that the lock wedge 1125 disengages the dampingmechanism 1130 (disengaging the drive gear 1140 from the spool gear1115). In the retracting mode, the upper lock release tab 1126 engages alock release housing slot 1107 (or lock release housing tab extendinginferiorly from the underside of the upper housing 1102 in someexamples) to release tension on the lock ring 1120 and allow the lacespool 1110 to rotate more freely. The operating principals of thelocking ring 1120 discussed in view of FIGS. 11A and 11B apply similarlyto all of the control mechanisms in FIGS. 10A through 13I, with somevariations as noted below for the locking ring in FIGS. 12A-12I.

Back to the discussion of specifics of the generator control mechanism1000, the generator mechanism 1030 can include a pivoting mounting plate1031, a motor 1032, reduction gearing 1033, a generator housing 1034, agenerator gear 1036, a drive gear 1040, and a pinion gear 1042. Themotor 1032 is directly coupled to the reduction gearing 1033 whichincludes a motor shaft 1037 extending into a generator gear coupler1035. The motor 1032 and reduction gearing 1033 are driven throughrotation of the generator gear 1036, which is driven by the drive pinion1042 coupled to the drive shaft 1044 of the drive gear 1040. The drivegear 1040 engages with the spool gear 1015 (as discussed above inreference to the locking ring 1020), which controls rotation of the lacespool 1010. The entire generation mechanism 1030 pivots on the pivotingmounting plate 1031 and is biased against the spool gear 1015 via thegenerator bias member 1039. In this example, the generator bias member1039 is a coil spring, but the coil spring could be replaced by anycomparable bias member. Pivoting of the generation mechanism 1030engages disengagement of the generation mechanism under certainoperating conditions. The generation mechanism 1030 pivots around pivotpoint 1038 that corresponds with the pivot shaft 1046 that extendsthrough a portion of the pivoting mounting plate 1031.

FIG. 10I is a bottom view illustration of a portion of the internalmechanism within the regenerative control system 1000. In this example,the lace spool 1010 includes a bias member interface 1016 where therotary bias member 1018 is secured to the lace spool 1010 and lace gear1015. In this example, a portion of a rotary (torsional) spring extendsinto a slot in the side of an inner recess of the lace spool 1010 thatholds the rotary bias member 1018.

Many of the components discussed above are replicated in the followingcontrol systems. Accordingly, the discussion of those componentsprovided above apply similarly to the similar components introducedbelow. The following discussion will focus on differences in the variouscontrol systems, such as the tension mechanism (e.g., regenerativebraking, analog damper, ratchet system, and rotary friction mechanism).Individual components will be introduced as discussed at least brieflywithin each embodiment.

FIGS. 11A-11J are various drawings illustrating aspects of a rotarydamper analog control system, according to an example embodiment. Inthis example, the control system uses a rotary damper to impart extratension on the lace. The rotary damper control system 1100 can include alower housing 1101, an upper housing 1102, a lace spool 1110, a spoolgear 1115, a locking ring 1120, a damper mechanism 1130, a drive gear1140, and a lace guide 1150. The housing includes the lower housing 1101coupled to the upper housing 1102 with the lower housing 1101 includinga mounting flange 1103 with mounting holes 1104. Similar to otherembodiments, the housing also includes a lace guide recess 1105. In thisexample, the housing also includes a lock release housing tab 1106, alock release housing slot 1107, and a damper housing opening 1108.

In this example, the lace spool 1110 includes a lace anchor 1111, a lacegroove 1112, a lock ring groove 1114, a bias member interface 1116 andis coupled to a spool gear 1115. The lace spool 1110 also houses arotary bias member 1118 that couples to the lace spool 1110 via the biasmember interface 1116. As with the other embodiments, the locking ring1120 fits into the lock ring groove 1114 on the lace spool 1110.Operation of the lace spool 1110 and locking ring 1120 are discussedabove in reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B. FIG. 11E is a cross-sectionperspective view illustrating how the lower lock release tab 1127 on thelocking ring 1120 engages with a lock release housing tab 1106. As thelocking ring 1120 rotates clockwise (engaging damping mode—unlockedmode) the lower lock release tab 1127 engages the end of the lockrelease housing tab 1106 to release tension on the locking ring 1120.The upper lock release tab 1126 can engage a similar structure (or ahousing slot) to release tension on the locking ring 1120 in theretracting mode.

The damper mechanism 1130 is introduced in FIG. 11A, and furtherdetailed in FIGS. 11F-11J (in particular). In this example, the dampermechanism 1130 can include components such as a pivoting damper mount1131, a damper housing 1134, a damper 1132, damper mounting holes 1135A,1135B, and a damper gear 1136. The damper 1132 can be mounted on thepivoting damper mount 1131, which pivots about the damper pivot point1138 on the pivot shaft 1146 extending from the pivoting damper mount1131. As illustrated in FIGS. 11A-11B, the pivoting damper mount 1131 isbiased by the damper bias member 1139. The example illustrated in FIGS.11A-11B includes a drive gear 1140, a drive pinion 1142 that interfaceswith the damper gear 1136, and a drive shaft 1144. However, the exampleillustrated in FIGS. 11C-11J has the damper gear 1136 directlyinterfacing with the spool gear 1115.

The damper mechanism 1130 in these examples operates to increase thedrag on the extension of the lace by adding mechanical resistance to therotation of the lace spool 1115 when the locking ring 1120 is rotatedsuch that the lock wedge 1125 is not engaged with the damper gear 1136(or drive gear 1140), so the damper gear 1136 can engage with the spoolgear 1115. The damping mechanism 1131 is illustrated in the damping modein FIG. 11A. As shown in FIG. 11B, the damping mechanism 1130 isdisengaged during the retraction mode of operation, where the rotarybias member 1118 drives the lace spool 1115 to retract the lace backonto the lace spool 1115. In certain examples, the damper 1132 can be anadjustable analog damping device with a rotary (or similar) input thatallows for adjustment of the amount of damping generated by the dampingmechanism 1130.

FIGS. 12A-12I are various drawings illustrating aspects of a digitalclutch control system 1200, according to an example embodiment. Thedigital clutch control system 1200 allows for complete locking of laceextension upon activation of the ratchet mechanism 1230. The ratchetmechanism 1230 is designed to lock-out extension (or release) of thelace, but still allow for additional lace retraction through ratchetingof the lace spool 1210. In this example, the digital clutch controlsystem 1200 includes structures such as a lower housing 1201, an upperhousing 1202, a lace spool 1210, a spool gear 1215, a locking ring 1220,a ratchet mechanism 1230, solenoids 1240A, 1240B, a lace guide 1250, acircuit board 1260, a battery 1270, and an on/off switch 1280.

In this example, the lace spool 1210 has similar components to theexamples discussed above, but interacts with other components a bitdifferently. The lace spool 1210 includes a lace anchor 1211, a lacegroove 1212, a spool bearing 1213, a lock ring groove 1214, and a spoolgear 1215. The lace anchor 1211 is a U-shaped groove in the superiorsurface with two through holes extending into the lace groove 1212. Thespool bearing interfaces the lace spool 1210 with a spool shaft 1217that extends inferiorly to couple with a rotary bias member 1218 and thespool gear 1215. Both the lace spool 1210 and the spool shaft 1217include an interface to couple with the rotary bias member 1218. Therotary bias member 1218 interface, the spool shaft bias member slot1219, in the spool shaft 1217 is a vertical slot in the center of theshaft. While the bias member interface 1216 in the lace spool 1210 is anL-shaped slot formed in the inferior side of the lace spool 1210 (seeFIG. 12I).

The ratchet mechanism 1230 interacts with the spool gear 1215 and thesolenoids 1240A, 1240B, to form a digital clutch mechanism that can beactivated based on inputs, such as from an external sensor monitoringuser activity or timing circuitry within the circuit board 1260. Thedigital clutch mechanism is control via timing or sensors by the circuitboard 1260 with power from the battery 1270. The ratchet mechanism 1230includes a ratchet pivot shaft 1231, pivot shaft bearings 1232A, 1232B,a ratchet manual release 1233, a ratchet tooth 1234, a solenoid arm 1235and a solenoid interface 1236. The ratchet mechanism 1230 is biased by abias member either a rotary bias member built into the ratchet pivotshaft 1231 or by a coil spring (or similar bias member) positionedbetween the lower housing 1201 and the ratchet solenoid arm 1235(omitted from figures for clarity purposes). Accordingly, the ratchettooth 1234 is biased against the spool gear 1215 as illustrated in FIGS.12A-12B (FIG. 12B in particular illustrates the digital controlmechanism 1200 in ratcheting mode). The ratchet tooth 1234 includes anangled surface that rides on corresponding rounded tooth surfaces on thespool gear 1215 teeth, with opposing catch surfaces to prevent the spoolgear 1215 from rotating in a clock-wise direction with the digitalrotary clutch control mechanism 1200 is in ratcheting mode.

To activate free mode, and disable the ratchet mechanism 1230, thecircuit board 1260 triggers the solenoids 1240A, 1240B to activate,which results in extending the solenoid shafts 1245A, 1245B. Note, thesystem illustrated includes two solenoids to increase the overallstrength of the solenoid activation, other examples can utilize one ormore than two solenoids as needed to achieve the desired power. Uponactivation, the solenoid shafts 1245A, 1245B (through 1245A) push on theratchet solenoid arm 1235 at the solenoid interface 1236 to pivot theratchet mechanism 1230 away from engagement with the spool gear 1215. Infree mode, the locking ring 1220 can rotate to position one of theratchet lock-out tabs 1228A, 1228B into position adjacent the ratchettooth 1234. In the example illustrated in FIG. 12A, ratchet lock-out tab1228A is positioned adjacent the ratchet tooth 1234. The other ratchetlock-out tab 1228B operates to lock-out the ratchet mechanism 1230 undercertain conditions without activation of the solenoids 1240A, 1240B—forexample after a certain amount of ratcheting (retraction of lace) occursand the locking ring 1220 has rotated into a position where the lowerlock release tab 1227 engages lock release housing tab (notillustrated—see e.g., FIG. 11E, 1106) on the lower housing 1201. In freemode, the upper lock release tab 1226 engages the lock release housingslot (or tab) (see e.g., FIG. 11C, 1107) to release tension on thelocking ring 1220 and allow the lace spool 1210 to rotate more freely.

In some examples, the primary purpose of the locking ring is to limitthe amount of time the solenoid needs to be energized to reduce powerconsumption. Once the solenoid releases the pawl (ratchet), the spoolstarts to spin which in turns spins the locking ring. The locking ringprevents the pawl from re-engaging even with power to the solenoid (orsimilar digital/powered control device) turned off. Another benefitprovided by the locking ring involves preventing noise duringretraction. For example, once the spool starts to retract, the lockingring can impedes the motion of the pawl to prevent chatter on the gearteeth.

FIGS. 13A-13I are various drawings illustrating aspects of a rotaryfriction analog control system 1300, according to an example embodiment.The rotary friction analog control system 1300 operates in a mannersimilar to the rotary damper control mechanism 1100 discussed above. Therotary friction analog control system 1300 substitutes a frictionmechanism 1330 for the damper mechanism 1130 discussed above. Otherwise,other components of the rotary friction analog control system 1300 aredesigned and function similarly to those discussed above in reference tothe rotary damper control mechanism 1100, for example the lace spool1310 and related components are comparable to the lace spool 1110 andrelated components. Additionally, the locking ring 1320 functions in amanner comparable to the locking ring 1120 including the lock wedge 1325operating to disengage the friction mechanism 1330 by pushing thefriction fear 1336 away from the spool gear 1315. As is the casethroughout this disclosure, components with similar numbering schemes(e.g., lace spool 1110 and lace spool 1310) are comparable structureswith similar features and functions (except where noted).

In this example, the friction mechanism 1330 introduces drag into thelace spool 1310 mechanism to slow the extension of the lace out of thecontrol system under certain conditions (similar to the dampingmechanism 1130). The friction mechanism 1330 can include a pivotingfriction housing 1331, a pivoting friction mount plate 1332, a pivotshaft 1333, friction washers 1334A, 1334B, a friction shaft 1335, afriction gear 1336, a friction bearing 1337, and a friction adjustmentknob 1339. The majority of the friction mechanism 1330 is containedwithin the pivoting friction housing 1331. The pivoting friction housing1331 couples to the pivoting friction mount plate 1332 to hold thefriction washers 1334A, 1334B, the friction gear 1336, and the frictionbearing 1337 with the friction shaft 1335 running through thosecomponents. The pivoting friction housing 1331 and pivoting frictionmount plate 1332 form an assembly that pivots on the pivot shaft 1333around pivot point 1338. In an example, the friction shaft includes athreaded inferior end that extend through a friction housing opening1309 in the lower housing 1301 to receive the friction adjustment knob1339. The friction adjustment knob 1339 interacts with the frictionbearing 1337 to compress the friction washers 1334A, 1334B against thefriction gear 1336 to generate an adjustable amount of frictionresisting rotation of the friction gear 1336.

While not specifically illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13I, the pivotingfriction housing 1331 and pivoting friction plate 1332 are biased by abias member, such as a coil spring, to force the friction gear 1336 intoengagement with the spool gear 1315. An arrangement similar to thatillustrated in FIG. 11A, where the damper bias member 1139 is shownbiasing the damping mechanism 1130 with a coil spring disposed between aportion of the lower housing 1101 and the pivoting damper mount 1131,could be utilized within this embodiment. Alternatively, a rotary biasmember, such as a torsional spring, could be integrated into the pivotshaft 1333 to bias the friction mechanism 1330 against the spool gear1315. To engage pivoting of the friction mechanism 1330, the frictionhousing opening 1309 in the lower housing 1301 is an oblong hole ofsufficient size to enable the friction adjustment knob 1339 and frictionshaft 1335 to move freely.

Similar to the locking ring 1120, the locking ring 1320 includes a lockwedge 1325 that operates to disengage the friction mechanism 1330 fromthe spool gear 1315 when rotated into a certain position. The lock wedge1325 includes a grooved ramped surface to engage the friction gear 1336as the locking ring 1320 rotates in a clockwise direction (as viewedfrom above (e.g., FIG. 13E). In some examples, the lock wedge 1325portion of the locking ring 1320 engages another portion of the frictionmechanism 1330, such as the pivoting friction mount plate 1332 or thepivoting friction housing 1331, to pivot the friction mechanism 1330away from engagement with the lace spool 1310. The lock wedge portion ofthe locking ring discussed above in other examples can also, similarly,engage portions of the damping mechanism 1130 or generator mechanism1030 other than the respective gears (e.g., damper gear 1136 or drivegear 1040).

FIGS. 14A-14D are various drawings illustrating aspects of afriction-based analog control system 1400 that utilizes opposingdirection fabrics, according to an example embodiment. The followingexample utilize a mohair material with directional hairs in afriction-based analogy control system. The mohair mechanism is modeledon the concept used by back country skiers using ski skins to ascend amountain on downhill skis. Original ski skins were produced from sealskins that have stiff directional hairs. Today, most ski skins utilize asynthetic approximation of seal skin, such as mohair fabric.

FIG. 14A illustrates a test rig used in testing the mohairfriction-based analog control system 1400. In this example, a firstdirectional fabric 1410A is adhered to a housing 1460A, which isintended to represent a housing of a control device to be affixed to aperson's torso or a fixed portion of an adaptive support apparel. Asecond directional fabric 1420A is adhered to an inferior surface of acontrol structure 1450A, which is representative of the control deviceor mechanism that is applying various tensions on a lace or lace cableattached to a support portion of the adaptive apparel, such as a brastrap on an adaptive bra. In this example, down force vector 1440A isrepresentative of the soft tissue weight (e.g., breast tissue weight)plus gravity, while up force vector 1430A is representative of aconstant support force. Note, the terms “up” and “down” are used in arelative sense, but are representative of the effect that would beapplied to a support portion of an adaptive apparel during use such asrunning. Also, in an actual control device, the down force vector 1440Ais a control lace or similar structure attached to a support portion ofthe adaptive apparel. Similarly, the up force vector 1430A is a tensiondevice, such as a spring to provide a constant support force to thecontrol lace. In this example, the constant support force (up forcevector) 1430A is similar to the breast tissue weight.

Each of the directional fabrics include directional hair or fibers,represented by first directional fibers 1412A and second directionalfibers 1422A. As illustrated, these directional fibers are oriented inopposing directions to generate a much greater friction force in theopposing direction and allow easier movement between the opposingfabrics in the other direction. In this example, the first and seconddirectional fabrics 1410A, 1420A altered induced different force levelsto produce direction changes as detailed in Table 2 (referencing downforce vector 1440A (DOWN) and up force vector 1430A (UP)):

TABLE 2 Force (lbs) Direction (mohair only, 720 mm²) DOWN TO DOWN 0.5DOWN TO UP 0.8 UP TO UP 0.5 UP TO DOWN 2.4As illustrated by the example testing measurements, the transition thatrequires overcoming the opposing directional fibers on the first andsecond directional fabrics 1410A, 1420A is the only transition where thefabrics create a significant increase in the required force. In thisexample, the DOWN is representative of extension of a lace cable from acontrol mechanism and UP is representative of retraction of a lace cablefrom a control mechanism. The arrangement of opposing directionalfabrics functions as a dampening mechanism on the supported soft tissue,such as breast tissue in an adaptive bra. The friction-based analogcontrol mechanism in FIG. 14A can produce results similar to those shownin FIG. 8, where the cycle for the breast tissue (e.g., 1450A) isreduced in amplitude and shifted in comparison to the torso (e.g.,1460A) cycle.

FIG. 14B illustrates a friction-based analog control mechanism 1400B,according to an example embodiment. In this example, opposingdirectional fabrics are used in a rotary control mechanism designed tobe integrated into a piece of adaptive apparel, such as an adaptive bra.The friction-based analog control mechanism 1400B includes a firstdirectional fabric 1410B affixed to an inner cylindrical surface ofhousing 1460B. The friction-based analog control mechanism 1400B alsoincludes a second directional fabric 1420B affixed to an outercylindrical surface of a control structure 1450B that applies a tensionto control lace 1440B generated in part by a tension device 1430B. Inthis example, the tension device 1430B is a torsion spring positionedwithin the hub of the control structure 1450B. The control structure1450B is a lace spool in this example, that moves rotationally withrespect to the housing 1460B to release or retract the control lace1440B.

Again, the first and second directional fabrics 1410B, 1420B arepositioned opposing each other with directional fibers 1412B, 1422Bangled in opposing directions. The opposing directions create anincreased friction between the housing 1460B and rotation of the controlstructure (lace spool) 1450B when in a transition between retracting(counter-clockwise rotation) and extending (clockwise rotation) of thecontrol structure 1450B.

FIGS. 14C and 14D illustrate integration of a friction-based analogcontrol device 1400C into an adaptive bra. In this example, the firstdirection fabric 1410C is affixed to a fixed portion of a bra strap(e.g., housing 1460C). The second directional fabric 1420C is affixed toa control structure 1450C, which is a moveable portion of the bra strapcoupled to a support portion of the adaptive bra. In this example, thecontrol structure 1450C is coupled to a control lace 1440C whichreceives a constant tension from tension device 1430C.

In this example, the tension device 1430C applies a constant tension onthe control lace 1440C to provide support to the support portion of theadaptive bra. The first and second directional fabrics 1410C, 1420Coperate to increase friction between the control structure 1450C and thefixed bra strap (housing) 1460C when the control structure istransitioning from retracting (pulling up on the support portion of theadaptive bra) to extending (e.g., allowing the support portion of theadaptive bra to move downward). In other words, the first and seconddirectional fabrics 1410C, 1420C, operate to increase the break-awayforce needed to transition between retracting and extending (e.g., achange in direction between the first and second directional fabricsthat move against the opposing fibers). As discussed above, theinteraction between the first and second directional fabrics operateswithin the adaptive support garment to modify the supportcharacteristics, such as reducing amplitude of the cycle and/or shiftthe cycle with respect to the center of mass.

FIGS. 15A-15C are various drawings illustrating aspects of an analogcontrol system 1500 that utilizes a spool gear and tensioned toothmember, according to an example embodiment. The analog control system1500 is a modular control device designed to mimic the function of thedirection fabric system discussed above. In this example, the analogcontrol system 1500 includes components, such as a tensioned toothmember 1510, a lock stop 1515, an extension stop 1520, a retraction stop1525, a lace spool 1530, a spool gear 1535, a spool hub 1540, and spoolretention washer 1545. FIG. 15A illustrates the analog control system1500 in an extension state where the lace spool 1530 is free to rotatein a counter-clockwise direction to allow extension of a lace cable (notillustrated). FIG. 15B illustrates the analog control system 1500 in alocked state where a gear tooth 1511 of the tensioned tooth member 1510is engaged with spool gear 1535 and tension device 1512 is engaged withthe lock stop 1515. FIG. 15C illustrate the analog control system 1500in a retraction state where the lace spool 1530 is free to rotation in aclockwise direction to retract the lace cable. In the retraction statethe lace spool 1530 is biased to move in the clockwise direction by atension spring embedded within (or around) spool hub 1540.

In operation, the analog control system 1500 is going to exhibitincreased break-away force in transitions between extension state toretraction state as well as retraction state to extension state. Theincreased break-away force is generated by the tensioned tooth member1510 engaging the spool gear 1530 between the gear tooth 1511 and thetension device 1512. When in the locked state, illustrated in FIG. 15B,the tension device 1512 engages the lock stop 1515 to force the geartooth 1511 into the spool gear 1530. The magnitude of tension generatedby the tension device 1512 will affect the magnitude of the break-awayforce. In this example, the tension device 1512 is a coil springdisposed within the tensioned tooth member 1510.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating components of the adaptivesupport system, according to some example embodiments. Note, throughoutthis document the adaptive support system is also referred to as theadaptive support apparel system. In this example, the adaptive supportsystem 1 includes components such as a control circuit 1604, activitysensors 1606, and an adaptive engine 1608, with the adaptive engine 1608integrated within an adaptive support garment 1602. The adaptive supportgarment 1602 can include an adaptive supportive region 1610. Theadaptive supportive region 1610 includes one or more control lace(s)1614 configured to selectively become inelastic and/or elastic and acontrol device 1612 that can generate and/or provide signals thatcontrol actuation of the control lace(s) 1614.

The control lace 1614 can include an indicator comprising a hapticfeedback device, light source, or other interface means that canindicate whether the control lace and/or support garment controldevice(s) 1612 is engaged or disengaged, or to indicate a degree towhich the control device(s) 1612 is engaged.

The control circuit 1604 includes a processor 1616, a computer-readablememory device memory 1618, and a communication circuit 1620. Asdiscussed above, in some examples the control device 1612 can beintegrated within a smart watch 30 or smartphone 35 (FIG. 1). In thoseexamples, the control device 1612 is embodied within a softwareapplication running on an operating system (e.g., iOS or Android) forthe smart watch 30 or smartphone 35 hardware. Accordingly, the processor1616 and memory device memory 1618 would be part of the smartphone 35 orsmart watch 30. In the illustrated example, the control device 1612 is astandalone device or integrated into an adaptive support garment 1602.

The processor 1616 accesses instructions stored in the memory devicememory 1618 to process activity data received over the communicationcircuit 1620. The activity data can also be stored on the memory devicememory 1618 at least during processing operations. The processor 1616also processes instructions that enable it to generate and transmit,over the communication circuit 1620, commands to the adaptive engine1608. The commands communicated to the adaptive engine 1608 controlactivation of the adaptive engine 1608 to change support characteristicsof an adaptive support garment.

The control device 1612 receives activity data from activity sensors1606. In this example, activity sensors 1606 can include any combinationof an IMU 1622, an accelerometer 1258, a strain gauge 1624 (e.g., acapacitance-based strain gauge configured to measure displacementinformation), a pressure sensor 1626, a global positioning system 1630,a temperature sensor, and/or a heart rate (HR sensor 1632), tensionsensor 1634, and among other sensors capable of producing dataindicative of a user's activity level (e.g., activity sensor 1636). Theactivity sensors 1606 can include any combination of the listed sensors,and transmits the produced activity data to the control device 1612 overa wireless communication link, such as Bluetooth® LE (Low Energy).Additionally, as alluded to above, the components of system 1 discussedabove can be distributed in any combination across devices including asmart watch, a smartphone, a footwear assembly, or an adaptive supportgarment (e.g., integrated into an adaptive engine).

ADDITIONAL NOTES

Throughout this specification, plural instances may implementcomponents, operations, or structures described as a single instance.Although individual operations of one or more methods are illustratedand described as separate operations, one or more of the individualoperations may be performed concurrently, and nothing requires that theoperations be performed in the order illustrated. Structures andfunctionality presented as separate components in example configurationsmay be implemented as a combined structure or component. Similarly,structures and functionality presented as a single component may beimplemented as separate components. These and other variations,modifications, additions, and improvements fall within the scope of thesubject matter herein.

Although an overview of the inventive subject matter has been describedwith reference to specific example embodiments, various modificationsand changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from thebroader scope of embodiments of the present disclosure. Such embodimentsof the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein, individuallyor collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience andwithout intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application toany single disclosure or inventive concept if more than one is, in fact,disclosed.

The embodiments illustrated herein are described in sufficient detail toenable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings disclosed.Other embodiments may be used and derived therefrom, such thatstructural and logical substitutions and changes may be made withoutdeparting from the scope of this disclosure. The disclosure, therefore,is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of variousembodiments includes the full range of equivalents to which thedisclosed subject matter is entitled.

As used herein, the term “or” may be construed in either an inclusive orexclusive sense. Moreover, plural instances may be provided forresources, operations, or structures described herein as a singleinstance. Additionally, boundaries between various resources,operations, modules, engines, and data stores are somewhat arbitrary,and particular operations are illustrated in a context of specificillustrative configurations. Other allocations of functionality areenvisioned and may fall within a scope of various embodiments of thepresent disclosure. In general, structures and functionality presentedas separate resources in the example configurations may be implementedas a combined structure or resource. Similarly, structures andfunctionality presented as a single resource may be implemented asseparate resources. These and other variations, modifications,additions, and improvements fall within a scope of embodiments of thepresent disclosure as represented by the appended claims. Thespecification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in anillustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

EXAMPLES

Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can becombined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of theother examples.

Example 1 describes subject matter including an article of apparel forproviding dynamic support for an appendage of a person. The article ofapparel can include a support garment control device configured tomanipulate a support portion of the article of apparel. The supportgarment control device includes a control lace coupled to a supportportion of the article of apparel. The support garment control device(control device) is configured to apply a first tension on the controllace. The control device is also configured to lock the support garmentcontrol device at the first tension to inhibit movement of the controllace in response to detecting a change in movement of the person. Thecontrol device is further configured to unlock the support garmentcontrol device after a pre-determined event subsequent to the change inmovement of the person.

In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 can optionally include thesupport garment control device being a modular panel including amechanical control system and being detachably coupled to the article ofapparel.

In Example 3, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 and 2 canoptionally include a sensor adapted for monitoring movements of theperson wherein an output from the sensor is evaluated to detect thechange in movement of the person.

In Example 4, the subject matter of Example 3 can optionally includeevaluating the output from the sensor to predict a future motion of theperson to preemptively apply the first tension on the control lace.

In Example 5, the subject matter of any one of Examples 3 or 4 canoptionally include evaluating the output from the sensor to determine aduration of time the control lace remains locked at the first tension.

In Example 6, the subject matter of any one of Examples 3 to 5 canoptionally include evaluating the output from the sensor to determine adirection of acceleration of the person, the direction of accelerationof the person is used to adjust the first tension according to thedirection and acceleration of the person.

In Example 7, the subject matter of any one of Examples 3 to 6 canoptionally include evaluating the output from the sensor and in responseto a determination the output exceeds a threshold applying the firsttension on the control lace and locking the support garment controldevice at the first tension to inhibit horizontal and/or verticalmovement of the control lace.

In Example 8, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 7 canoptionally include the support portion of the article of apparel beingconfigured to move freely while supporting the appendage of the personwhen the support garment control device is unlocked.

In Example 9, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 8 canoptionally include the article of apparel having a first support garmentcontrol device and a second support garment control device, each of thefirst and the second support garment control devices individuallyoperable to provide dynamic support for a first and a second appendageof the person.

In Example 10, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 9 canoptionally include the support portion being a first support portion,the article further comprises a second support portion wherein the firstsupport portion and the second support portion are configured to receiveand support a first and a second breast of the person respectively.

In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 can optionally includethe article being a sports bra and the support garment control device isimpermanently affixed to a front or a back region of the sports bra.

In Example 12, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 11 canoptionally include the pre-determined event being an expiration of atime delay since locking the support garment control device.

Example 13 describes a method of providing dynamic support for anappendage of a person using an adaptive support garment. The method caninclude operations such as applying a first tension, locking a controldevice, and unlocking a control device. In this example, a supportgarment control device (control device) can applying a first tension ona control lace coupled to a support portion of the adaptive supportgarment. The control device can also lock at the first tension toinhibit movement of the control lace in response to detecting a changein movement of the person. The control device can then unlock after apre-determined event subsequent to the change in movement of the person.

In Example 14 the subject matter of Example 13 can optionally includeattaching the support garment control device to a modular panelincluding a mechanical control system to be detachably integrated intothe adaptive support garment.

In Example 15, the subject matter of Example 14 can optionally includeattaching the support garment control device to the modular panelincludes coupling the control lace to the support garment controldevice.

In Example 16, the subject matter of Example 15 can optionally includethe control device, after unlocking, applying a second tension on thecontrol lace, the second tension being a higher tension than the firsttension, locking the support garment control device at the secondtension to restrict movement of the control lace in response todetecting a second change in movement of the person, and unlocking thesupport garment control device after a second pre-determined eventsubsequent to the second change in movement of the person.

In Example 17, the subject matter of any one of Examples 13 to 16 canoptionally include using a sensor adapted for monitoring movements todetect a movement input from of the person and evaluate an output fromthe sensor to detect the change in movement of the person.

In Example 18, the subject matter of Example 17 can optionally includeevaluating the output from the sensor to predict a future motion of theperson to preemptively apply the first tension on the control lace.

In Example 19 the subject matter of any one of Examples 17 or 18 canoptionally include evaluating the output from the sensor to determine aduration of time the control lace remains locked at the first tension.

In Example 20 the subject matter of any one of Examples 17 to 19 canoptionally include evaluating the output from the sensor to determine adirection of acceleration of the person, the direction of accelerationof the person is used to adjust the first tension according to thedirection and acceleration of the person.

Example 21 describes a support garment control device for an article ofapparel. The control device can include a control lace coupled to asupport portion of the article of apparel. The control device can beconfigured to apply a first tension on the control lace, lock at thefirst tension to inhibit movement of the control lace in response todetecting a change in movement of a wearer of the article of apparel,and unlock after a pre-determined event subsequent to the change inmovement of the wearer.

Example 22 describes a method of controlling a person's breast tissueduring exercise using an adaptive support garment. In this example, themethod can include applying a first tension, using a support garmentcontrol device, on a control lace coupled to a support portion of theadaptive support garment. The method can also include locking thesupport garment control device to inhibit movement of the control lacein response to detecting a change in movement of the person, andunlocking the support garment control device after a pre-determinedevent subsequent to the change in movement of the person.

In Example 23 the subject matter of Example 22 can optionally includedetecting a movement input from a sensor adapted for monitoringmovements of the center of mass of the person and detecting the changein movement of the person includes evaluating the movement input.

In Example 24 the subject matter of Example 23 can optionally includedetecting the change in movement input includes detecting an impactevent.

In Example 25 the subject matter of any one of Examples 23 and 24 canoptionally include the detecting the change in movement input includesaveraging a pre-determined number of previous movement cycles to producea time-averaged waveform representative of a cyclical movement patternassociated with the exercise, and predicting the change in the movementinput based on the time-averaged waveform.

In Example 26, the subject matter of Example 25 can optionally includepredicting the change in the movement input includes predicting a futureimpact event based on the time-averaged waveform.

In Example 27, the subject matter of Example 26 can optionally includepredicting the future impact event includes identifying a time of thenext trough in the time-averaged waveform.

In Example 28, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22 to 27 canoptionally include the pre-determined event including a second tensionon the control lace coupled to the support portion transgressing athreshold tension.

In Example 29, the subject matter of Example 28 can optionally includethe second tension is detected within the support garment controldevice.

In Example 30, the subject matter of Example 29 can optionally includethe threshold tension being controlled by one-way locking fibers adaptedto resist relative motion between surfaces below a breaking thresholdforce.

In Example 31, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22 to 30 canoptionally include the pre-determined event being expiration of a timedelay since locking the support garment control device.

In Example 32, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22 to 31 canoptionally include locking the support garment control device includesapplying a second tension on the control lace coupled to the supportportion of the adaptive support garment, wherein the second tension ishigher than the first tension.

In Example 33, the subject matter of Example 32 can optionally includeapplying the second tension on the lace includes engaging a rotationaldampening device on a spool holding a portion of the lace.

In Example 34, the subject matter of Example 33 can optionally includeengaging the rotational dampening device includes changing a backelectro-magnetic force on a motor to produce regenerative braking.

In Example 35, the subject matter of any one of Examples 33 and 34 canoptionally include engaging the rotational dampening device includesengaging a plurality of friction discs.

In Example 36, the subject matter of any one of Examples 22 to 35 canoptionally include locking the support garment control device includesdisengaging a solenoid engage a ratchet pawl to limit movement of thecontrol lace to a single direction.

In Example 37, the subject matter of Example 36 can optionally includethe ratchet pawl engaging teeth on a lace spool to limit movement of thecontrol lace to retraction within the support garment control device.

In Example 38, the subject matter of any one of Examples 36 and 37 canoptionally include unlocking the support garment control device includesengaging the solenoid to disengage the ratchet pawl.

In Example 39, the subject matter of any one of Examples 36 to 38 canoptionally include unlocking the support garment control device includesrotation of a locking ring to disengage the ratchet pawl afterretraction of a pre-defined length of the control lace.

Example 40 describes a support garment control device for an adaptivesupport garment. The control device can include a first directionalfabric including first directional fibers and coupled to a fixed portionof the adaptive support garment. The control device also includes asecond directional fabric including second directional fibers andcoupled to a movable control structure portion of the adaptive supportgarment. The control device further includes a tension device coupled tothe movable control structure and configured to apply a tension in afirst direction on the movable control structure. In this example, thefirst directional fibers engage with the second directional fibers toresist movement in a second direction opposite the first direction.

In Example 41, the subject matter of Example 40 can optionally includethe control device generating an interaction between the firstdirectional fibers and the second directional fibers to increase theforce required to transition movement of the movable control structurefrom the first direction to the second direction.

In Example 42, the subject matter of Example 41 can optionally includethe control device including movement of the movable control structurein the first direction increases compression within a portion of theadaptive support garment.

In Example 43, the subject matter of Example 42, can optionally includethe control device including movement of the movable control structurein the second direction decreases compression within the portion of theadaptive support garment.

In Example 44, the subject matter of any one of Examples 40 to 43 canoptionally include the first directional fabric being coupled to a fixedshoulder strap portion of the adaptive support garment.

In Example 45, the subject matter of Example 44 can optionally includethe control structure being a movable shoulder strap positioned oppositethe fixed shoulder strap portion of the adaptive support garment.

In Example 46, the subject matter of any one of Examples 40 to 45 canoptionally include the fixed portion of the adaptive support garmentbeing a cylindrical body containing the movable control structure andthe tension device.

In Example 47, the subject matter of Example 46 can optionally includethe tension device is a torsion spring configured to apply a constantforce to the movable control structure.

In Example 48, the subject matter of Example 46 can optionally includethe movable control structure being a lace spool rotationally disposedwithin the cylindrical body.

In Example 49, the subject matter of Example 48 can optionally includethe second directional fabric is disposed around an external surface ofthe lace spool opposite the first directional fabric disposed around aninternal surface of the cylindrical body.

NOTES

The above detailed description includes references to the accompanyingdrawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawingsshow, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which theinvention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred toherein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition tothose shown or described. However, the present inventors alsocontemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described areprovided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examplesusing any combination or permutation of those elements shown ordescribed (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to aparticular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect toother examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or describedherein.

In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and anydocuments so incorporated by reference, the usage in this documentcontrols.

In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patentdocuments, to include one or more than one, independent of any otherinstances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In thisdocument, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that“A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unlessotherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “inwhich” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms“comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms“including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device,article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements inaddition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemedto fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the followingclaims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merelyas labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements ontheir objects.

Method examples described herein, such as the motion control or digitalcontrol system method of operation examples, can be machine orcomputer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include acomputer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded withinstructions operable to configure an electronic device to performmethods as described in the above examples. An implementation of suchmethods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, ahigher-level language code, or the like. Such code can include computerreadable instructions for performing various methods. The code may formportions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the codecan be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, ornon-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during executionor at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable mediacan include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magneticdisks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital videodisks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random accessmemories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and notrestrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or moreaspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Otherembodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the artupon reviewing the above description. An Abstract, if provided, isincluded to comply with United States rule 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allowthe reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure.It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used tointerpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in theabove Description, various features may be grouped together tostreamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intendingthat an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather,inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of aparticular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are herebyincorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments,with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it iscontemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other invarious combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention shouldbe determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the fullscope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

The claimed invention is:
 1. An adaptive support garment comprising: afirst directional fabric including first directional fibers, the firstdirectional fabric coupled to a fixed portion of the adaptive supportgarment; a second directional fabric including second directionalfibers, the second directional fabric coupled to a movable controlstructure portion of the adaptive support garment; and a tension devicecoupled to the movable control structure and configured to apply atension in a first direction on the movable control structure; whereinthe first directional fibers engage with the second directional fibersto resist movement in a second direction opposite the first direction.2. The adaptive support garment of claim 1, wherein interaction betweenthe first directional fibers and the second directional fibers increasethe force required to transition movement of the movable controlstructure from the first direction to the second direction.
 3. Theadaptive support garment of claim 2, wherein movement of the movablecontrol structure in the first direction increases compression within aportion of the adaptive support garment.
 4. The adaptive support garmentof claim 3, wherein movement of the movable control structure in thesecond direction decreases compression within the portion of theadaptive support garment.
 5. The adaptive support garment of claim 1,wherein the first directional fabric is coupled to a fixed shoulderstrap portion of the adaptive support garment.
 6. The adaptive supportgarment of claim 5, wherein the control structure is a movable shoulderstrap positioned opposite the fixed shoulder strap portion of theadaptive support garment.
 7. The adaptive support garment of claim 1,wherein the fixed portion of the adaptive support garment includes acylindrical body containing the movable control structure and thetension device.
 8. The adaptive support garment of claim 7, wherein thetension device is a torsion spring configured to apply a constant forceto the movable control structure.
 9. The adaptive support garment ofclaim 7, wherein the movable control structure is a lace spoolrotationally disposed within the cylindrical body.
 10. The adaptivesupport garment of claim 9, wherein the second directional fabric isdisposed around an external surface of the lace spool opposite the firstdirectional fabric disposed around an internal surface of thecylindrical body.
 11. The adaptive support garment of claim 1, whereinthe first directional fibers extend from the first directional fabric ata first angle and the second directional fibers extend from the seconddirectional fabric at a second angle, with the second angleapproximately opposite the first angle.
 12. The adaptive support garmentof claim 11, wherein the first directional fabric and the seconddirectional fabric are made from the same directional fabric positionedin opposing orientation.
 13. A method of controlling a support structurewithin an adaptive support garment, the method comprising: creating acontrol structure within the support structure including frictionallyapplying a first directional fabric against a second directional fabric;maintaining a first tension on the support structure up to a breaktension; applying a second tension greater than the break tension on thesupport structure; and in response to the second tension, disengagingthe control structure including the first directional fabric moving in afirst direction relative to the second directional fabric.
 14. Themethod of claim 13, wherein the creating the control structure includespositioning first directional fibers of the first directional fabric inan orientation opposing second directional fibers of the seconddirectional fabric.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the creating thecontrol structure includes applying the second directional fabric to afixed portion of the support structure.
 16. The method of claim 15,wherein the creating the control structure includes applying the firstdirectional fabric to a movable portion of the support structure,wherein the movable portion of the support structure is coupled to aportion of the adaptive support garment that experiences cyclicalstresses.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the creating the controlstructure includes application of a bias member inducing a third tensionopposing at least a portion of the first tension.
 18. The method ofclaim 13, further comprising resetting the control structure includingthe first directional fabric moving in a second direction relative tothe second directional fabric.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein theresetting the control structure includes a bias member applying a thirdtension on the support structure in the second direction.
 20. The methodof claim 19, wherein the applying the third tension includes the biasmember applying a tension lower than the first tension in the firstdirection.
 21. An adaptive support garment comprising: a movable supportmember including a first directional fabric; a fixed support memberincluding a second directional fabric, the second direction fabricpositioned opposing the first directional fabric; and a bias membercoupled to the movable support member and applying a first tension in afirst direction on the movable support member to provide initial supportto a portion of the adaptive support garment coupled to the movablesupport member.